BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- GUYANA's President, Dr Irfaan Ali issued a strong criticism of the region for not appreciating the investments made by its leaders to address the global challenges currently facing CARICOM member states.
The region is dealing with the growing threats of climate change, safety and security issues, imported inflation, and the recent sociaeconomic fighting in Haiti. Various leaders have taken responsibility for addressing these challenges.
In his lengthy speech, President Ali criticized the private sector, the media, and the public for not showing optimism and appreciation for the successes achieved by the leaders in recent months.
Supporting President Ali, Chairman of CARICOM and Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, highlighted that the bloc is the longest-standing integration movement in the developing world, attracting interest from around the globe. This global interest underscores the work of the Community.
Dr. Carla Barnett, CARICOM Secretary-General, noted that the integration movement has entered the second half of its journey to a century. She emphasized that it is time to take stock of achievements and evaluate commitment to the ideals of the integration movement. While acknowledging that much work remains, she highlighted many of the successes achieved by the bloc.
Dr. Barnett also pointed out that CARICOM has led or supported critical hemispheric and global issues that have influenced major thinking. She reminded of the Haiti crisis and the calls for activating the loss and damage fund for vulnerable small island states, among other issues.
“Our growing impact and stature have led to an increasing number of expressions of interest from countries in the hemisphere to participate more fully in CARICOM,” Dr. Barnett revealed.
During the 47th Heads of Government Meeting, the body welcomed Curaçao as an associate member. The three-day meeting will see regional leaders discussing critical matters impacting the region, including climate change, crime and violence, and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
